Now that we’re approaching summer, hats are no longer a fashion statement - they’re a necessity to protect your head and face when you’re out and about. Gary asked about advice on men’s hats for summer, which inspired this roundup of the five hats you need to know about for summer:

The Trilby hat is a narrow brimmed, soft mens hat with a deep indentation in the crown. Traditionally made of felt, it’s now found in all kinds of fabrics, including the ever popular straw this summer. It’s a smart casual hat that was popular from the 1920s through the middle of the 1960s - and again today.

Classic American fashion is taking hold globally, so it’s no wonder that this piece of Americana has become a trend in and of itself. We love Ebbets Field Flannels’ hats (available via J Crew) because of their faithful reproductions of vintage classics.The FedoraPictured: Bad Boy Fedora | $70 at Goorin Brothers

The Fedora hat is a felt hat that’s distinguished by its lengthwise crease down the crown and pinched look in the front. Traditionally a women’s hat, Fedoras became popular as menswear in the 1920s. It’s a traditional looking hat that fell out of favor in the 1960s - but is seeing a resurgence today. The hat pictured is an evergreen one that works for cooler seasons; for summer, you may want a lighter color or fabric.

Perfect for summer, the Panama hat is a wide brimmed straw hat of Ecuadorian origin. The feel of this hat is very old school, but the Panama hat has withstood the test of time and has now established itself as a classic. What we love about the Panama hat is its lightweight, breathable construction, which makes it functional as well as fashionable for warm weather.What kind(s) of hats will you be wearing this summer? Share your style with us in the comments!

I actually have the driver’s cap….for myself. My boyfriend decided it looks better on me than him
And since I have shoulder length hair, it’s perfect for casual weekend. It’s simple yet edgy enough to make a subtle statement.

2.
Anonymous | June 16th, 2010 at 5:52 pm

I’d love to see a similar post for women!

3.
Gary | June 17th, 2010 at 5:11 pm

Thanks for your suggestions, Trish! I have a lightweight chambray J. Crew driver’s cap that I’m going to pull out more now, based on your endorsement. And I’m now inspired to pick up a Panama Hat–not like the one pictured but in a Fedora style.

4.
tim | April 12th, 2011 at 10:17 pm

hey I have the exact same straw hat and i think you got scammed or something cause i got it for 15$ and marks work warehouse and it wasn’t on sale or anything